Reef Keeper Lite and Elite Programs

[ReeferRob]

With the reef controller the new must have, I thought we needed a place to discuss implementation, programming, and problem solving here on Captivereefs.com
Not sure this is the right forum to have it but we will see.........

Yesterday, I finally got around to adding my float valve to my skimmer and wanted to share just in case anyone else would like to do the same.

Skimmer Float Valve

First thing I did was purchase the Digital Aquatics 'Float Valve Kit' Make sure you get the kit, not just the float valve. You will need the wire kit adapter to be able to connect and get the float valve online.

I connected mine via Switch Port A on my SL2 module for my RKL.

I used a Del Monte Sun Fresh Fruit Salad glass jar (basically a mason jar). Pretty much anything can work for a waste collector. I drilled two holes in the top lid. One for a drain line coming from the skimmer collection cup and one smaller for the float valve.

Programming is as follows:
Skimmer plugged in to Channel 2 on PC4
Mode-Auto
Function-Pump
Alarm (select which ever alarm number you programmed, I used #1)
Action-Off

Now under main menu go to Alarms and select an available Alarm
Alert (your discretion)
Device-Select which switch port you used (my case SWA)
Set Point-.5
Trip-Above.

Hope this helps anyone who wants to have a fail safe programmed in to their controller to avoid an overflowing skimmer!

More to come....................
Please feel free to contribute if you can!

[Cash]

Great thread I will be watching I am about to pull the trigger on a RKL

[ReeferRob]

Great thread I will be watching I am about to pull the trigger on a RKL

'Bout time!

[card16969]

awesome now we can also rant and rave about how much of a love hate relationship we have with our reef keepers so far mine is a pain in the butt im dealing with da about it

[ReeferRob]

awesome now we can also rant and rave about how much of a love hate relationship we have with our reef keepers so far mine is a pain in the butt im dealing with da about it

What's the problems your having?

[card16969]

What's the problems your having?

one of my strips isnt working right and im having a hard time getting things to program

[Bongo Shrimp]

This will be a good thread.

My RKE comes tomorrow and I can't wait to try it out. I (eventually) will be controlling both of my biocube with it.

I have heard some horror stories about the RK* having temp errors and raising the temp too high and frying everything. Should I be worried about this or do you think errors like that are relatively rare?

[ReeferRob]

I've never heard of that one, besides wouldn't the internal thermostat on the heater turn it off?

[Bongo Shrimp]

Hey IDK I'm new to this.

[ReeferRob]

It my understanding that the advantage of having your PC4 power the heaters is that if the heater thermostat fails and is stuck on the RKL will kill the power if the channel is programmed properly.

[Manoj's Reef]

Tagging along , because I want to do some thing similar to my skimmer as well. Good thread Rob

[ReeferRob]

Heaters
First select channel to which the heater will be plugged in, I use channel 3.

Mode-Auto
Function-Controller
Device-iTemp
SetPoint-79.5 (use the temp you desire here)
Hysteresis-000.1
On When-Below
Alarm-At your discretion, see below
Action-Off

Alarm-Select available number, I used Alarm 02
Alert-Again you choice, I choose an audible alarm for this
Device-iTemp
Set-Point, I used 81.5 degrees
Trip-Above

So in this case I am relying on the RKL to make sure the temp does not fall below 79.5 and off when above 81.5 degrees. Note this only works if thermostat on heater is set slightly above 79.5. The audible alarm notifying me if the heater is stuck on and above 81.5.

[ReeferRob]

Tagging along , because I want to do some thing similar to my skimmer as well. Good thread Rob

Manoj you should totally do it. It was easier than I thought and works like a dream. So far saved me from 2 overflows and is way easier to clean! Really happy I did it!

[ReeferRob]

Bumping this thread because I know a lot of us are using these by now and am certain others have found different more unique ways to utilize the controller. YoungTimothy I know for example uses his to dose 2 part daily, and I for one (the non computer minded) would love to learn what the exact programming is to achieve this.

[Manoj's Reef]

Currently I have just 1 pc4 which I am using to control my lights and dosing pumps. When I get the next pc4, I will be using that to control my powerheads, skimmer and frag tank.

Its had to find used RKL's , any one selling?? :big_grin:

[vega15]

I will have my RKL sometime this month (back ordered WTH?!) I am sure that I will need your guys input on how to get this thing working right! LOL

[youngtimothy]

sorry ReeferRob I for got I was going to post this.
I dose cal and alk from bulk reef supply and use their dosing pumps

first thing it is important to plug your dosing pumps into #1or #4 they are low voltage motors and sometime wont shut off if plugged into the other outlets.
I then figured out how much I needed to dose per day and devided it up into 24 hours.
then set timers do dose this throught out the day.

timer 1 ALK
day of week ----------
start doesnt matter
on duration 00:4:00
off duration 00:56:00
repeat count 00
oscillate on

timer 2
day of week -------
start doesnt matter
on duration 00:3:58
off duration 00:56:02
repeat count 00
oscillate on

mag I dose as needed

[Ak388]

sorry ReeferRob I for got I was going to post this.
I dose cal and alk from bulk reef supply and use their dosing pumps

first thing it is important to plug your dosing pumps into #1or #4 they are low voltage motors and sometime wont shut off if plugged into the other outlets.
I then figured out how much I needed to dose per day and devided it up into 24 hours.
then set timers do dose this throught out the day.

timer 1 ALK
day of week ----------
start doesnt matter
on duration 00:4:00
off duration 00:56:00
repeat count 00
oscillate on

timer 2
day of week -------
start doesnt matter
on duration 00:3:58
off duration 00:56:02
repeat count 00
oscillate on

mag I dose as needed

I just set this up today on my RKL, but programmed it a little bit differently. I like your way better. Glad I looked at this thread. Thanks!

[Tom@HaslettMI]

Just got an RKL. I haven't hooked it up yet but am planning to run 2 heaters and the lights with the PC4. Down the line I'll add an SL2, and some combination of ALC module(s) (if I go LED), an APC (depending on functions available and if it ever gets released) or additional PC4s.

One thing I read somewhere is that you can use a powerstrip to run several items off of a single PC4 plug (as long as you stay within the amperage limits). Is anyone doing this? If so, I'll probably run the heaters that way.

Thanks,
Tom

[Tom@HaslettMI]

Set it up last Thursday and its running like a charm. Here's how I have it set up.

Plug 1: Single ATI Blue+ 39watt T5HO. Used to simulate clear sky/clouds. I have it oscillate on for 30 minutes then off for 30 minutes eight times starting at 12:30pm.

Plug 2: Tunze 6055. On wave maker A. On for five seconds then off for one. I wish I could figure out how to get equal on/off time. Any thoughts?

Plug3: Remainder of lights and a canopy fan all plugged into a powerstrip. 2x39watt T5HO (Blue+ and aquablue special), three inch fan and 2 white powerbrite LEDs. All on at 1pm off at 11pm.

Plug 4: two heaters. Temp set for 77*F.

Things I'll likely change in the near future... switch equipment on plugs 3 and 4. Plug 4 clicks every time the heaters go on or off and is kind of annoying. If I switch these around then I can cut that clicking down to twice a day when the lights turn on and off.

Tom

[cg5071]

What does oscillate on mean for lights? Good idea w/ the powerstrip being able to controll more stuff.

[Tom@HaslettMI]

What does oscillate on mean for lights? Good idea w/ the powerstrip being able to controll more stuff.

I'm still pretty new to the RK lingo so ocillate may not be correct. I programed the light to be on for 30 minutes then off for 30 minutes. It does 8 cycles a day.

I'm really pleased that the powerstrip thing works. Four plugs is not a lot for most tanks so being able to use standard powerstrips to expand the PC-4 makes the $99 controller way more flexible.

Tom

[steve&mari]

We have the rkl and got some adapter 1 into 3 plugs at dollar tree work great for the running of 2 heaters or pumps as wavemaker. Also set wavemaker a and b at equal times alternating but use only plug 4 with 2 pumps plugged into it. http://184.72.239.143/mu/b8e614a4-7af2-bec9.jpghttp://184.72.239.143/mu/b8e614a4-7b1d-4501.jpg

Sent from my SPH-M900 using Tapatalk

[Tom@HaslettMI]

We have the rkl and got some adapter 1 into 3 plugs at dollar tree work great for the running of 2 heaters or pumps as wavemaker. Also set wavemaker a and b at equal times alternating but use only plug 4 with 2 pumps plugged into it.

The 1-3 plug is the same thing I'm using for my heaters. Except it is brown and probably about 25 years old :oldman:.

Thanks for the tip on the wavemaker function. I'll have to tinker with it this evening. Could you elaborate on how you have yours set up (tank size, make, model and GPH of pumps, settings on the RKL) and whether your able to achieve swaying soft corals?

Thanks,
Tom

[cg5071]

Yes it deffinately makes the 99$ unit more usefull.

[jolson10450]

i use a 3 plug one i got from home depot for $1.99 and put my return and k2 on the same plugs so when i push the standby feeding button they both turn off. great tip steve! just remember to check your amperage and be sure it's not over so you don't blow your breaker or a fuse in the unit.

[EMUreef]

I've been thinking about this idea, using a splitter on on outlet for 2 power heads as i plan on adding two more and i don't feel like buying another PC4

Just so everyone knows MyReef2.0 and firmware 2.0 Have been released.

[vega15]

Does anyone have the document that I found on the web a bit ago...it was pretty much a layout of a bunch of pc4's a head unit etc...

The cool thing was you were able to name your pc4's on this doc and record the type of programming that you had in each. Also you could name your channels on this doc.

I can not find it again!!! LOL

Ideas anyone?

[steve&mari]

Yeah I do keep track of load on em good point I missed to state. Thanks Justin hate to have someone have trouble from it. Tom I will get more info up tonite when I have longer to do it all. Happy reefing all. Big Steve.

Sent from my SPH-M900 using Tapatalk

[cg5071]

vega I suppose you would have to search for info on the net modual as I think that is how/where you name your outlets ect. I remember something similar while researching. Not positive though.

[EMUreef]

vega I suppose you would have to search for info on the net modual as I think that is how/where you name your outlets ect. I remember something similar while researching. Not positive though.

The new myReef program that is available for download is what allows you to actually name your devices and outlets. You can graph and do a whole bunch of things with it.

[Tom@HaslettMI]

Just so everyone knows MyReef2.0 and firmware 2.0 Have been released.


The new myReef program that is available for download is what allows you to actually name your devices and outlets. You can graph and do a whole bunch of things with it.

Could you provide a link? I can't seem to find it on the DA website... I searched for quite a while. I found the new operators manual for 2.0 but not the download:confused:.

Thanks,
Tom

[EMUreef]

Could you provide a link? I can't seem to find it on the DA website... I searched for quite a while. I found the new operators manual for 2.0 but not the download:confused:.

Thanks,
Tom

I hate to say it but it their website is not most friendly one i've encountered.
They post all of there updates and firmwares/softwares in the support form. Here is a direct link to the thread with the updates. You'll have to sign up for the forum to see the download.

http://www.forum.digitalaquatics.com/viewtopic.php?f=88&t=7885

[Tom@HaslettMI]

Thanks for the link. I probably checked that page but was not registered so wasn't able to see the download. That is no longer a problem :thumbsup:

Any advice on upgrading firmware? There are no instructions in the user manual...

Thanks,
Tom

[EMUreef]

Thanks for the link. I probably checked that page but was not registered so wasn't able to see the download. That is no longer a problem :thumbsup:

Any advice on upgrading firmware? There are no instructions in the user manual...

Thanks,
Tom

Negative, no advice, i can be the test dummy though, i've been planning on doing it but i dont have a windows computer, so i need to get a virtual machine of Windows going on my mac first than ill tackle the upgrade and do a report on the myReef if you felt more comfortable with that.

[Tom@HaslettMI]

I'll probably upgrade in the next week or two (while I still have a windows work computer) and will post the experience here. After that I'll be in the same boat as you... mac only. So, I'll be interested in learning more about how you set up a "virtual machine".

Thanks for all the help,
Tom

[steve&mari]

Hey sorry Tom bout not gettin more info been on sick side alil started another round of chemo hope to be on alil longer soon. Thanks for understanding your reefer friend Big Steve.


Sent from my SPH-M900 using Tapatalk

[Tom@HaslettMI]

Hey sorry Tom bout not gettin more info been on sick side alil started another round of chemo hope to be on alil longer soon. Thanks for understanding your reefer friend Big Steve.


Sent from my SPH-M900 using Tapatalk

Don't worry about me. Keep your priorities straight... your health and kicking cancer.

Tom

[EMUreef]

i figure this is a better place than any to post this question.
Fellow reefers with the RKL and the ph probe.

how did you calibrate yours? I can not for the life of me get it to calibrate right.

when i calibrate i do the 10ph solution first than the 7.. how long do you let each solution sit for? I tried 15 mins each and my reading was WAY off.

I calibrate and than put it back in each solution to see how close i am... yea... its usually .1-.2 off for each solution... and thats right after i calibrate it. Any advice?

[Tom@HaslettMI]

i figure this is a better place than any to post this question.
Fellow reefers with the RKL and the ph probe.

how did you calibrate yours? I can not for the life of me get it to calibrate right.

when i calibrate i do the 10ph solution first than the 7.. how long do you let each solution sit for? I tried 15 mins each and my reading was WAY off.

I calibrate and than put it back in each solution to see how close i am... yea... its usually .1-.2 off for each solution... and thats right after i calibrate it. Any advice?

I don't have the pH probe myself but here (http://www.forum.digitalaquatics.com/viewtopic.php?f=15&t=7416&st=0&sk=t&sd=a&start=15) is a thread in the DA forum that may help. It sounds like a common problem that has been fixed in the 2.0 upgrade.

HTH,
Tom

[EMUreef]

I don't have the pH probe myself but here (http://www.forum.digitalaquatics.com/viewtopic.php?f=15&t=7416&st=0&sk=t&sd=a&start=15) is a thread in the DA forum that may help. It sounds like a common problem that has been fixed in the 2.0 upgrade.

HTH,
Tom

wow thanks tom i appreciate you tracking that down for me. Guess ill have to get going on this 2.0 upgrade.

[Tom@HaslettMI]

No problem. Hopefuily the upgrade will get it to work properly.

Tom

[Tom@HaslettMI]

Just did the 2.0 upgrade on my RKL. It went fairly smoothly.

A few tips...


Write down any/all of your programs... It will all be deleted during the update
Print out the directions from the DA forum... not necessary but much easier (for me at least)
You must turn off the PC4 to update it... this was a source of much frustration


The programming is slightly different but is still pretty straight forward and it appears as though my controller has a few new features! Now I just have to read the new 50 page manual to figure out what they are, and somehow convince DA to release a myReef for macs.

HTH,
Tom

[EMUreef]

Just did the 2.0 upgrade on my RKL. It went fairly smoothly.

A few tips...


Write down any/all of your programs... It will all be deleted during the update
Print out the directions from the DA forum... not necessary but much easier (for me at least)
You must turn off the PC4 to update it... this was a source of much frustration


The programming is slightly different but is still pretty straight forward and it appears as though my controller has a few new features! Now I just have to read the new 50 page manual to figure out what they are, and somehow convince DA to release a myReef for macs.

HTH,
Tom

thanks tom this is going to be very helpful and i hate having to reset everything cause well its just a pain having to do it all over again lol.

But i agree they need to port it for macs, but if you want PM me and i can tell you what to do for a virtual machine.

[EMUreef]

did you have to use a PC to do the firmware update?

[Tom@HaslettMI]

did you have to use a PC to do the firmware update?

You need to install myReef to get the latest firmware, so I believe a PC is required. I used my work PC, but I won't be working there in the new year (got a new job!) so I will be mac only soon. I'll PM you on the virtual machine thing.

Thanks,
Tom